Owner of the Month – January – Trevor Teegler
As the new year begins, we take a look at how the sport of horseracing continues to grow and provide owners with joy and excitement no matter what part of the journey that are on. On the 21st of January, Laughing Willam (William Longsword x Laughing River) stormed to victory in the penultimate race on the day at the Vaal Racecourse. We are thrilled to feature the owner of the gelding, Trevor Teegler, as our ROA Owner of the Month for January.
Trevor’s passion for horseracing began at the young age of 16, though at the time, he never imagined he would one day become an owner. That all changed five years ago when through the National Horseracing Authority (NHA) he was contacted by Alistair Gordon. Alistair guided Trevor through the entire process, showing him, just how accessible ownership could be. Intrigued and excited, Trevor took the leap into the racing world, and he has never looked back or regretted a moment of his journey.
Trevor initially started with small percentage shares in two horses, one with Paul Matchett named Si Veloce and Exchange Student with Candice Dawson. He moved on to another percentage share in a Twice Over gelding named Another Level. Today, he currently has full ownership of Laughing William and partnerships in four other thoroughbreds all stabled at the CK Racing Yard. Trevor said: “As you can see, still much of a cautious newcomer and novice, but learning all the time”.
He recalls the 27th of July 2024 as his favorite racing memory to date. It was the last Turffontein race meeting of the 2023/2024 season and in the last race, he witnessed Laughing William romp home in his own colours. Hearing commentator Nico Kritsiotis congratulating him as the winning owner was the highlight of his day.
Beyond his love for racing, Trevor is passionate about family and aviation, working within the aviation industry. As a racehorse owner, he is eager to continue growing and learning, embracing every new experience along the way. He thrives on the competitive nature of the sport, where thoroughbreds and trainers push their limits, and he finds joy in seeing them celebrating their successes and investments.
Trevor’s journey in horseracing has been enriched by the people he has had the privilege to meet and engage with thus far. As a member of the Racehorse Owners Association for the past two years, he has greatly appreciated the interactions with the ROA staff, noting their friendliness and willingness to assist. He also values the many benefits of being a member, including the bonuses and the opportunity to connect with fellow owners.
Encouraged by the positive momentum in the sport, Trevor is excited to see horse racing returning to its “glory years,” with more patrons and families frequenting the racecourse. He finds immense satisfaction in watching thoroughbreds, regardless of their pedigree, compete for victory, as it provides smaller owners with a sense of achievement and success. This is especially true when the more fancied horses are beaten by outsiders.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Trevor and the Teegler family for their steadfast support and dedication to the sport. We wish them continued success and many more thrilling moments on the racecourse!
